How To Choose the Right Pair of Jeans

Jeans these days come in many shapes and sizes, and tend to change with the fashion times. From skin tight to 70s inspired bell bottoms to the ripped grunge of the 90s - choosing a good pair of jeans can be confusing, especially when you factor in body shapes and personal styles. Here’s a handy guide on how to choose and style different pairs of jeans.

Boyfriend Jeans

Credit: Unsplash

Relaxed with a slightly slouchy fit, boyfriend jeans are great for casual weekend outfits. They come in various shades of denim and fit just a bit bigger than your average pair of jeans - but not so much that they look baggy. Boyfriend jeans tend to flatter most body shapes and can be dressed with flats or sneakers, however it’s important to balance out the baggy with a slimmer fitting top. If you’re on the petite side, choose a top that is slightly cropped to avoid looking swallowed by the jeans.

Ripped Jeans

Credit: Creative Commons/Flickr

Ripped jeans have come a long way from the acid wash denim of the 90s. Nowadays, ripped jeans tend to be seen on black or white wash blue denim, with fraying at the ends or rips on the knees, and different cuts such as skinny or boyfriend. A good rule of thumb for wearing ripped denim is to keep the rips minimal, as they do continue to fray and wear out with time. They’re best paired with a basic white tee and low-cut sneakers, or Birkenstock sandals for an edgier twist.

Spray on Jeans

Credit: Unsplash

More tight fitting than skinny jeans, spray on jeans usually aren’t made from denim but rather a denim-polyester hybrid. Often referred to as ‘jeggings’, spray on jeans now also come in the wet-look PVC material and are great for petite bodies as they run slightly smaller than average jeans. Their stretch quality also means that they’re well suited to tall and curvy women. Wear with boots and a looser fitting top for a stylish yet comfortable outfit, or pair with heels and a blazer for a more polished attire.

High Rise

Credit: Unsplash.com

High rise jeans became popular after Olivia Newton John debuted the high rise pair with a crop top and low red heels in Grease. It seems that the trend is coming back into fashion, with high rise jeans and cropped shirts a popular combination today. For those who prefer a bit more coverage, high rise jeans also look great with a flowing cami tucked in and a cardigan.

Flare Out

Credit: Creative Commons/Flickr

Often associated with the free spirited hippie movement and the disco parties of the 70s, flare out jeans add a boho-chic look to any outfit, especially when paired with chunky wedges. Style with a bold crop jacket, big sunglasses and chunky accessories to give the look a modern twist.

Skinny Jeans

Credit: Unsplash.com

The classic. Skinny jeans are popular for their versatility and sleek straight-down, flattering silhouettes. Whether you dress them up with a silky blouse and heels or dress them down with sneakers and a band tee, it’s no secret that the skinny jean trend is one that will be around for a while. How skinny is too skinny? Make sure they fit snug around the waist but don’t cut into your hip or stomach. Skinny jeans will generally be tighter around the ankle and knee area, but should slide up your thighs easily and button up without strain. If you’re after a skin-tight look without the skin-tight feel, opt for spray on jeans instead.